The Irish Mindset

Ireland is a predominantly Celtic nation, typical values of which include a love of dialogue, idealism, informality, a sense of irony, creative vision and a strong sense of family. Religion is important and for many, particularly outside Dublin, the church is the focal point of the community. Nowadays, though, Ireland has to deal with the conflict between traditional Catholic values, which many see as strongly male-orientated, and the fact that the country (or Dublin, at least) is fast becoming a young, exciting, dynamic cultural melting pot. The Irish are excited by the impact the EU has had on their country, although uneasy about the fact that Dublin is, to many, becoming 'just another big European city' now.